Live Your Lush Life - Travel! Hello, ! Australia Like You’ve Never Seen It—Only with an Insider’s Key Welcome to this week's newsletter. Most
travelers see Australia. My clients experience it—on a level they didn’t think was possible. Australia, Unlocked: Travel Like an InsiderAustralia isn’t just a place you visit—it’s a world you feel. The heat rising off the Outback at sunrise. The whisper of waves over the Great Barrier Reef’s living coral. The thrill of holding a glass of Margaret River cabernet as the sun dips below the
vines. As a Certified Australian Specialist and Virtuoso travel advisor, I don’t just send you to Australia—I open doors you didn’t know existed. From Sydney’s sparkling harbour to the crimson cliffs of Katherine Gorge, this country is a study in contrasts. One day, you’re gliding through emerald rainforest waters; the next, you’re standing before ancient rock
art that predates the pyramids. You could spend a lifetime exploring and still only scratch the surface—but with my insider network, you’ll see the very best of it, curated just for you. Here’s why my clients say their trips Down Under are “beyond bucket list”: Exclusive Access – Private reef snorkels, behind-the-scenes wildlife encounters, and Aboriginal-led cultural experiences you won’t find
in a guidebook. Luxury Without the Guesswork – Handpicked stays, from glamorous Gold Coast resorts to secluded Outback lodges where the stars feel close enough to touch. Tailored to You – Whether it’s wine-tasting in Barossa Valley or diving with whale sharks in Ningaloo, your trip matches your pace, passions, and dreams. Virtuoso Privileges – Upgrades, daily breakfast, resort credits, and experiences worth far more than the price of admission. Australia is vast, vibrant, and unforgettable—but it rewards those who know where to look. That’s where I come in. My role is to take your wish list and elevate it into a seamless journey that’s as rare as it is personal. Your Australia is waiting.
Let’s craft it together—every detail, every moment, every memory.
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🌍 This Week’s 4 Travel CornersEach week, we bring you insights from four inspiring corners of the travel world—designed to spark ideas, fuel your wanderlust, and keep you in the loop on what’s possible next: River Cruise Corner – Explore the best of river cruising with itinerary highlights, ship spotlights, and insider tips. Adventure Travel Corner
– From safaris to polar expeditions, get inspired by journeys that push the boundaries of exploration. Wellness Travel Corner – Discover retreats, resorts, and experiences that help you relax, recharge, and reconnect. Come Travel With Me Corner – Join one of my upcoming hosted group trips and experience the world with fellow curious, like-minded travelers—crafted and guided by me. Where will your next
corner of the world be? Let’s find out together. 1. River Cruise Corner - From the Venetian Lagoon to Slovenia’s Alpine Magic“Two countries. Eleven days. Infinite beauty. That’s the promise of Uniworld’s brand-new Slovenia, Venice & the Jewels of Veneto itinerary—where Italy’s timeless
waterways meet Slovenia’s breathtaking landscapes.” In 2026, Uniworld takes its beloved Venice & the Jewels of Veneto river cruise to new heights with an exclusive pre-cruise land stay in Slovenia. You’ll begin in charming
Ljubljana, where pastel-colored buildings and the playful Dragon Bridge set the scene for a fairytale escape. Then venture to Lake Bled, its iconic church-topped island mirrored in emerald waters, before exploring natural wonders like Postojna Cave and the soaring peaks of Triglav National Park. From Slovenia, you’ll journey to Venice to board Uniworld’s elegant S.S. La Venezia, your boutique floating hotel for seven luxurious nights through the Venetian Lagoon and the gems of the Veneto region. Picture gliding past grand palazzos, sipping prosecco in sun-dappled piazzas, and visiting hidden treasures from Chioggia to Burano. Why this itinerary is so special: Two extraordinary countries in one seamless, fully-escorted journey A rare blend of alpine landscapes, medieval towns, and lagoon charm Uniworld’s all-inclusive luxury—intimate ships, curated excursions, fine
dining, and personalized service This isn’t just a trip—it’s a love letter to the elegance, culture, and natural beauty of Europe’s hidden corners. 2. Adventure Travel - Ever Climbed Into a Giant Inflatable Bathtub… to Visit Penguins?What’s it really like to step into a Zodiac on an expedition cruise? Think: a giant, motorized, inflatable bathtub. You grab a soldier’s grip from the expedition team, swing your legs in like you’re getting into a tub… and suddenly, you’re gliding through icy waters surrounded by glaciers and wildlife. This isn’t your typical cruise. This is Antarctica. This is awe. This is expedition
cruising for the curious, not just the hardcore. 🐧💨 Come along as I take you behind the scenes—Zodiacs, icebergs, and penguin encounters included. #ExpeditionCruise #ZodiacAdventure #AntarcticaCruise #LuxuryTravel #LushLifeTravel #TravelVlog #PenguinEncounter #CuriousNotExtreme 3. Wellness Travel: Exclusive Private Sale with SeabournExclusive Private Sale with SeabournNote: this newsletter will not be shared on social media. The details of the private sale are being
shared with you here exclusiveness. Nothing sales wellness like sailing on a luxury cruise, and saving money. Book during our Private Sale and receive exclusive savings of up to 10% off. Plus, take advantage of Seabourn's Sail into Savings event, which offers a
two-category Veranda Suite upgrade plus up to US $2,000 per suite Shipboard Credit OR up to 15% Savings. Book by Aug 31, 2025 Wake each day to ocean breezes, sunlight-filled suites, and the thrill of new horizons.
Seabourn’s small ships offer a more intimate way to explore—reaching hidden harbors and lesser-traveled ports that larger vessels simply can’t. EXCLUSIVE PRIVATE SALE*
Book your Seabourn voyage before August 31, 2025, and receive savings of up to 10% on select Expedition or Ocean voyages in 2025 and
2026! Special Bonus: When you book select Seabourn voyages you can take advantage of our Virtuoso benefits such as Onboard Host, Welcome Reception, Complimentary Enhanced Shore Events, Experience Credits, or Onboard Credit. Plus, don't miss out on Seabourn's newest
offer!SAIL INTO SAVINGS^ - For a limited-time, Seabourn’s Sail into Saving offer is your best opportunity to enjoy value beyond your expectations. Choose from two great ways to
save depending on where you decide to cruise. Enjoy up to 15% savings on select winter cruises and expeditions to Antarctica, Asia, the Caribbean, and more. — OR —Receive a two-category veranda suite upgrade and up to US $2,000 Shipboard Credit per suite on select summer cruises and expeditions to Alaska, Europe, the Arctic, and more. From tucked-away villages in the Mediterranean to the remote wilds of Alaska, every itinerary is thoughtfully designed to connect you with the soul of each destination. Onboard, enjoy world-class dining, premium spirits, and personalized service—with everything included and no gratuities expected. Enrich your journey with expert-led Seabourn Conversations or choose immersive adventures through Ventures by Seabourn®. For the truly adventurous, Seabourn’s expedition ships take luxury to the ends of the earth, pairing comfort with bold discovery in the polar regions and beyond. Incredible moments await beyond the horizon — connect today to start planning your voyage. Featured Seabourn Voyages - Ask about cruise fares and savings on these and other exciting sailings. Easter & Pitcairn Islands: Marooned, Moai &
Mutineers Apr 02, 2026 (19 days)Seabourn Pursuit | San Antonio (Santiago) to Papeete PRIVATE SALE: Enjoy 10% Savings on this voyage! Plus, when you take advantage of Seabourn's Sail into Savings offer you'll receive an additional savings of up 15% on this voyage. Special Bonus: Welcome Reception,
Onboard Host + $250 Shipboard Credit per person.
Itinerary: San Antonio (Santiago), Chile; Day at Sea; 2 day Seabourn Juan Fernandez Experience, Chile; 4 Days at Sea; Easter Island, Chile (overnight); 2 Days at Sea; Ducie Island, Pitcairn; Adamstown (Pitcairn Island), Pitcairn; 3 Days at Sea; Fakarava, Tuamotu, French Polynesia; Toau, French Polynesia; Anaa, French Polynesia; Papeete, French Polynesia. Wild Scottish Isles & Iceland Jul 06, 2026 (10 days)Seabourn Venture | Dublin to Reykjavik PRIVATE SALE: Enjoy 5% Savings on this voyage Plus, when you take advantage of Seabourn's Sail into Savings offer you'll
receive a two-category veranda suite upgrade and up to US $2,000 Shipboard Credit per suite on this voyage. Special Bonus: Welcome Reception, Onboard Host + $250 Shipboard Credit per person.
Itinerary: Dublin, Ireland; Calf of Man and Douglas, Isle of Man; Rothesay, Isle of Bute, Scotland; Tobermory, Island of Mull and Isle of Eigg, Scotland; Stornoway, Isle of Lewis, Scotland; Am Baile, St Kilda, Scotland;
Lerwick & Isle of Noss, Shetland Islands; 2 Days at Sea; Heimaey, Westman Islands, Iceland; Reykjavik, Iceland. Wild Labrador Coast: Missions, Fjords & Wilderness Sep 20, 2026 (15 days)Seabourn Venture | Reykjavik to Halifax PRIVATE SALE: Enjoy 5% Savings on this voyage! Plus, when you take advantage of Seabourn's Sail into Savings offer you'll receive a two-category veranda suite upgrade and up to US $2,000 Shipboard Credit per suite on this voyage. Special Bonus: Welcome Reception, Onboard Host + $250 Shipboard Credit per person.
Itinerary:
Reykjavik, Iceland; Kangerlussuaq, Greenland; Day at Sea; Pangnirtung and Kekerten Island, Nunavut; Lady Franklin Island and Monumental Island, Nunavut; Lower Savage Islands and Resolution Island, Nunavut; Nachvak Fiord, Torngat Mts, Nunavut; Ramah Bay and Rose Island, Torngat Mts, Nunavut; Hebron, Labrador; Nain, Labrador; Indian Harbour, Labrador; Battle Harbour, Labrador; L'Anse aux Meadows, Newfoundland; Cruising the Coast of Newfoundland; 2 Days at Sea; Halifax, Nova
Scotia. Chilean Fjords & Antarctica Nov 04, 2026 (18 days)Seabourn Pursuit | San Antonio (Santiago) to Buenos Aires PRIVATE SALE: Enjoy 10% Savings on this
voyage! Plus, when you take advantage of Seabourn's Sail into Savings offer you'll receive an additional savings of up 15% on this voyage. Special Bonus: Welcome Reception, Onboard Host + $250 Shipboard Credit per person.
Itinerary: San Antonio (Santiago), Chile; Day at Sea; Scenic Cruising Reloncavi Sound; Puerto Montt, Chile; Scenic cruising Moraleda Channel and the Darwin Channel; Scenic cruising
Baker Channel; Caleta Tortel, Chile & Transit the English Narrows; Scenic cruising Eyre Fjord; Pio XI Glacier (Bruggen Glacier), Chile; Scenic cruising Wide Channel; Scenic cruising Peel Fjord; Brujo Glacier, Chile; Scenic cruising Smyth Channel; Strait of Magellan; Punta Arenas, Chile (overnight); 2 Days at Sea; 5 Day Antarctic Experience; 2 Days at Sea; Ushuaia, Argentina (overnight); Buenos Aires, Argentina. 4. Come Travel with Me Corner 🌟 Travel With Sheila: AUSTRALIA/NEW ZEALAND - November- December 2025 Sail
with me on a luxury voyage through two of the world’s most breathtaking destinations—Australia and New Zealand. This November, I’m honored to be sailing as a Virtuoso Cruise Icon for 2025—a recognition reserved for the top 1% of cruise travel advisors worldwide. Silversea and Virtuoso are hosting a special Cruise Icon Celebration aboard the stunning Silver
Nova, and my husband and I will be onboard from November 30 to December 12, 2025. Even better—you can join us. We’ll depart from Melbourne and cross the
Tasman Sea to explore New Zealand’s legendary landscapes and vibrant cities. Along the way, you’ll enjoy Silversea’s all-inclusive ultra-luxury experience: spacious suites with ocean views, world-class dining, personalized service, and a warm, elegant atmosphere. This isn’t just a cruise—it’s a chance to travel alongside some of
the most accomplished Virtuoso advisors from around the globe, celebrating excellence in travel while experiencing these incredible destinations together. Highlights include: - Melbourne’s artsy laneways and buzzing food scene
- Scenic cruising through pristine waters and coastal wonders
- New Zealand’s
charming ports, wine regions, and dramatic fjords
- Special events onboard to mark the Virtuoso Cruise Icon Celebration
- With Silversea’s intimate ship size, every port feels personal, every experience feels curated, and every moment feels like it’s just for you.
📅 View the full itinerary here:
Melbourne to Auckland – Silver Nova Itinerary Space is limited for this rare opportunity to sail with a Virtuoso Cruise Icon—and share in a journey where luxury,
discovery, and celebration meet. Let’s reserve your suite and make this an unforgettable South Pacific adventure together. 🌟 Travel With Sheila: Quebec & Newfoundland Adventure — Fall 2026🍁 Montreal to Montreal | September 25 – October 9, 2026🛳 14 Nights Aboard Windstar’s Elegant Star Pride A once-in-a-lifetime voyage through Canada’s wild Atlantic coast—only offered once. Join me on Windstar’s Quebec & Newfoundland Adventure, a boutique-style
sailing that blends small-ship luxury with raw, untamed beauty. We’ll journey from cosmopolitan Montreal into towering fjords, picture-perfect fishing villages, and the rugged northern coastlines—just as fall’s golden colors reach their peak. This itinerary holds a special place in my heart—it takes us right to my home province of
Newfoundland, where jagged cliffs meet endless ocean and every harbor tells a story. And here’s something rare: this sailing never leaves Canada’s Atlantic waters—except to visit France. That’s right—thanks to a call in St. Pierre & Miquelon, you’ll step ashore in a little pocket of France without ever crossing the
Atlantic. (Insider tip: cruises like this are incredibly rare because maritime laws usually require visiting two countries, often meaning a U.S. port.) Aboard Star Pride, you’ll experience Windstar’s signature small-ship comfort—intimate spaces, personalized service, and a focus on the destination. Think gourmet dining
inspired by the ports we visit, open decks perfect for spotting whales and seabirds, and a warm, welcoming atmosphere that makes it feel more like traveling with friends than being on a cruise. Itinerary highlights include: Montreal’s vibrant energy and
historic Old Port The dramatic fjords of Saguenay Colorful fishing villages and wild coastlines of Newfoundland The French charm of St. Pierre & Miquelon Golden autumn landscapes at every turn 📅 View full itinerary, pricing & availability here:
Windstar Quebec & Newfoundland Adventure – Details &
Booking Spaces are limited, and this exclusive sailing is already in high demand. If you’ve ever dreamed of exploring Canada’s Atlantic in style—this is the year to make it happen. Let’s reserve your spot and make memories together at sea. Apologies for those with link issues last week. You can cut and paste in your browser from here that shows group pricing (with my group receiving a 5% discount): http://windstarcruises.sendsites.net/L/F/3760211689/P/SheilaGallant-halloran58886GuestCopySl3o Other details from Windstar here https://www.windstarcruises.com/cruise/shore-excursions/canada-ne/montreal-to-montreal/quebec-newfoundland-adventure/?pkgid=1019816 There’s limited space, and this itinerary is in high demand—let me know if you’d like to reserve your spot and travel with me!
✨ Four Directions of Travel InspirationEach edition of our newsletter brings you four curated travel insights to spark your wanderlust and keep you in the know. Here’s what to expect: In the Spotlight - From client journeys to industry features, see how Lush Life Travel is creating memorable adventures—and making headlines along the way. Virtuoso Travel Inspiration –
Handpicked features from Virtuoso Life, Virtuoso Traveler, or Virtuoso Insight—ideas that transport you. Elevate Your Stay – A weekly look at standout hotels from our preferred partner network, plus the VIP perks you receive when booking with Lush Life Travel. Exclusive Offers – Special promotions and insider access available only through Lush Life Travel, a proud affiliate of Direct Travel and top Virtuoso producer. This section is your one-stop compass for ideas, upgrades, and exclusive opportunities—all designed to help you live your lushest travel life. 5. ✨ Advisor Spotlight: Sheila in Travelweek Magazine “That ‘elbows up’ patriotism is translating into meaningful, memory-rich travel. I’m seeing clients actively avoid U.S. transits and lean into experiences that offer depth, connection, and perspective – like river cruises, expedition voyages and small ship luxury cruises.” 💬 I was honoured to share these thoughts with Travelweek in their recent article on why Canadian travelers are embracing the moment like never before.
🙏 Thank you to editor @kathrynfolliott and @travelweek for including me in this important conversation. See https://www.travelweek.ca/news/destinations/big-world-events-remind-people-that-they-only-live-once-why-its-been-a-busy-summer-for-canadas-travel-advisors/ ✈️ From AmaWaterways to Windstar, Lindblad to Explora, Ponant to Tahiti—I’ve seen clients say “yes” to last-minute splurges, milestone anniversaries, and once-in-a-lifetime
journeys. It’s clear: people aren’t putting off their dreams anymore. 💙 That photo? That’s my husband Bill and me, bundled up on a Zodiac in Antarctica, in front of a towering iceberg. The stuff of lifelong memories. If you’ve got a “someday” trip on your heart, now’s the time. — Sheila
@Lush Life Travel | Virtuoso Cruise Icon
www.lushlife.ca | Virtuoso Profile Subscribe to my youtube channel here: https://www.youtube.com/@SheilaGallantHalloran 📩 Let’s Start Planning Your Bucket List Journey: 🔹 Pre-Consultation Survey: 🔹 Schedule a Consult Sheila Gallant-Halloran | www.lushlife.ca | ✉️ sheila@lushlife.ca
6. Virtuoso Travel Inspiration
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Enjoy this recent edition of Virtuoso Life, Insider's Guide, and Virtuoso Dispatch—packed with award-winning travel inspiration and insights—all complimentary from me to you. Happy exploring! VIRTUOSO INSIDER’S GUIDE: Quick Escapes -Quick Escapes If you’ve been craving a quick getaway, now’s your chance. We’ve rounded up the ultimate last-minute escapes, whether you’re looking to soak up the final days of summer or secure an incredible
offer for an end-of-the-year cruise. Each pick comes with travel-worthy perks like free nights, generous resort credits, and more. Ready when you are, your Virtuoso travel advisor, Sheila, will handle the rest. https://e.virtuosoemail.com/virtuoso-insiders-guide-quick-escapes-2?ecid=ACsprvtYAf1idrhZVUdJyHwjVA-EroNaOWFel8mBTo6Qsq3LzSmTeScbPTySSvomKBnug696YR3d
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7.  𝑪𝒉𝒆𝒄𝒌𝒊𝒏𝒈 𝒊𝒏𝒕𝒐 𝒍𝒖𝒙𝒖𝒓𝒚? 𝑳𝒆𝒕’𝒔 𝒎𝒂𝒌𝒆 𝒊𝒕 𝒆𝒗𝒆𝒏 𝒃𝒆𝒕𝒕𝒆𝒓
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Unlock Exclusive Perks for Your Luxury Hotel Stay When you check into one of the world’s finest hotels through me (or via my Virtuoso
self-booking site), you’re stepping into a stay filled with VIP perks like:  Daily breakfast for two Room upgrades (when available) Early check-in / late check-out (when available) A US$100+ food & beverage or spa credit (varies by property)  𝐖𝐚𝐧𝐭 𝐭𝐨 𝐤𝐞𝐞𝐩 𝐢𝐭 𝐪𝐮𝐢𝐜𝐤 & 𝐞𝐚𝐬𝐲? Just self-bookYou can browse and self-book many of my Virtuoso partner hotels (link in first comment) — booking this way still gets you those amazing perks, with no added fee. Browse & Book Hotels Online.  𝐅𝐨𝐮𝐫 𝐒𝐞𝐚𝐬𝐨𝐧𝐬 𝐟𝐚𝐧𝐬, 𝐭𝐚𝐤𝐞 𝐧𝐨𝐭𝐞: If you’re staying at a Four Seasons, let me handle the booking through my Four Seasons Preferred Partner status so you’ll get even more exclusive access and benefits beyond Virtuoso.  𝐖𝐚𝐧𝐭 𝐦𝐨𝐫𝐞 𝐭𝐡𝐚𝐧 𝐣𝐮𝐬𝐭 𝐚 𝐫𝐨𝐨𝐦?If you’d like full VIP treatment—think personalized concierge service, curated experiences, and extra-special touches—just hire me to manage the booking. I’ll take care of every detail so you can simply arrive and enjoy. Whether it’s part of a bigger trip I’m planning for you, or just a quick getaway, let’s make every hotel stay unforgettable. (While I specialize in river and expedition cruises, as well as bespoke trips to Africa and Australia, I’m happy to book luxury hotels for my clients. Hotel-only bookings are subject to my professional fees, outlined here: Fee Schedule.)  𝐌𝐞𝐬𝐬𝐚𝐠𝐞 𝐦𝐞 𝐭𝐨 𝐬𝐭𝐚𝐫𝐭 𝐲𝐨𝐮𝐫 𝐧𝐞𝐱𝐭 𝐕𝐈𝐏 𝐬𝐭𝐚𝐲.
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This week, we feature: Longitude 131 Longitude 131° offers an essential experience of Australia's spiritual heartland. Lounge in the cool sanctuary of the Dune House, relax with an icy drink from the convivial open bar, and dine with ever-changing views of the monolith. After a day's exploring, relax in a luxury tent and enjoy unparalleled views of Uluru from the end of the bed. Retreat to Spa Kinara for an indigenous-inspired treatment or drink in the sunset on the
glamorous Dune Top. Venture beyond the lodge to discover the World Heritage-listed wilderness of Uluru-Kata Tjuta and connect with the ancient stories of the land’s traditional owners. Virtuoso travelers receive: For 2025: - Upgrade not applicable for this property
- Daily breakfast for up to two guests per bedroom, served in the restaurant (already included in property rates)
- $100 USD equivalent Spa Kinara Credit to be utilized during stay, applicable towards spa treatments (excludes retail, not combinable, no cash value if not redeemed in full)
- Early Check-In / Late Check-Out, subject to
availability
- Complimentary Wi-Fi
https://www.virtuoso.com/advisor/sheilagallanthalloran/travel/luxury-hotels/6164116/longitude-131 8. Exclusive Offers As the owner of Lush Life Travel, a boutique travel agency affiliated with Direct Travel, I’m delighted
to bring you access to exclusive offers through Direct Travel’s status as one of the largest Virtuoso luxury travel network partners. Here are some fantastic opportunities from a few of our favorite travel supplier partners: DESTINATION of the week: Australia - Reef to Rock: Australia’s Greatest Hits SMALL OCEAN CRUISE Partner of the week: Seabourn Private Sale RIVER CRUISE Partner of the week: Viking- Medieval Wonders up close EXPEDITION CRUISE Partner of the week: Coral
Expeditions -Best of The Kimberley and Tiwi Islands TOUR PARTNER of the Week: The Tailor - Australia - Northern Territory Luxe Adventure: From Red Sands to River Plains (10 Days) HOTEL of the week: Melbourne Ritz Carlton LUXURY experience of the week: Lindblad Expeditions - 35% off for Canadians - select routes and dates I have some offers and information on all these weekly partners. Click the button to see more.
Unlock Your Lush Life through Travel
At Lush Life Travel, you’re not just booking a trip—you’re unlocking 20 years of travel expertise paired with 20 years in financial services. My focus on detail, risk management, and a network of trusted relationships ensures your journey is seamless, unforgettable, and uniquely yours. Here’s to creating defining moments and living your lush life through travel!
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